Probe ordered after release of accused in 80 kg charas seizure case

By Sagar Suraj
Motihari/Sugauli:
The East Champaran police have ordered a probe after three accused arrested in a case involving the seizure of 80 kg of charas were released, raising questions over the investigation and prosecution in the matter.

The role of the then investigating officer (IO), the station house officer (SHO) of Sugauli police station and the prosecution officer will also be examined as part of the inquiry.

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East Champaran superintendent of police Swarn Prabhat has constituted a three-member committee to investigate the case. The panel comprises the DSP (Headquarters), the cyber DSP and the Sadar SDPO.

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According to police records, the alleged seizure was made on March 21, 2024, in the Sugauli police station area. An FIR (No. 123/24) was registered under the provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, and three persons were arrested in connection with the case.
Given the large quantity of the contraband, the case was considered a serious instance of organised drug trafficking.

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However, the matter came under scrutiny after the three accused were subsequently released by the court. Their release has triggered questions regarding the quality of the investigation and the handling of evidence.
Police sources said the quick release of the accused in a case involving such a large seizure points towards possible lapses in investigation or weak prosecution.
Preliminary inputs suggest that there may have been procedural shortcomings in the preparation of the seizure list, documentation of evidence and the case diary. It is also suspected that the prosecution may not have been able to present a strong case before the court.
The inquiry committee has been tasked with examining whether the seizure of 80 kg charas was properly documented, whether any irregularities occurred during the investigation process and whether negligence or possible collusion played a role in the release of the accused.

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Officials said the panel will scrutinise all relevant documents, including the seizure memo, case diary and other evidence, and may question the officers associated with the investigation.
Based on the findings, departmental action, suspension or even the registration of a fresh case could be recommended against those found responsible.
Drug seizure cases in East Champaran have drawn controversy in the past as well, and the outcome of the latest inquiry is likely to be closely watched.